How This Mother of the Bride is Prepping—One Month Out

In a few weeks, all the planning for my daughter’s wedding will come to fruition. It’s an exciting and gratifying time, and a little nerve-racking. There are so many details to consider, I wake up in the middle of the night with a whole new list. The engaged couple, wedding ceremony and reception are the main focus, but I thought I’d share the things I’m doing to prepare in terms of beauty/style/fitness for the occasion. I think it’s fun to learn how other women get ready for their kid’s wedding day, and hope you do too.

After my icky social media incident, when I posted a video of some of the dresses I was trying on and hundreds of Facebook strangers told me how hideous, inappropriate and ridiculous I looked, I’m not going to share the dress I’m wearing to the wedding. Mainly because my daughter asked me not to expose myself to any more mean criticism. But I will share the fun outfit I’m wearing to the rehearsal dinner. Here it is (pardon the wet hair).

It helps to take a selfie, because I notice things about my outfit I wouldn’t see in the mirror. Like I need to do something about the glaringly white skin revealed by the criss-cross neckline. I don’t need a full-on spray tan, so I’m going to try some self tanning products. I did some extensive research (i.e. googled “best self tanner for tan lines” one time) and this St. Tropez Self Tan Express Kit was well reviewed (photo below). I’ll give it a trial run and see how it performs. It’s just $20.

The other thing I noticed in the photo was my clashing phone case. I’m sure I’ll want to snap some pics during the festivities, and this bright yellow case distracts from the rest of what I’m wearing. I ordered an inexpensive glittery gold case to replace it. I’m still playing around with accessories. I may need some fun reading glasses too.

Other than my annual visit to my cosmetic derm a couple weeks ago, I’m not worrying too much about my skin. I have friends who started a regimen of intense facials six months ahead of time, but I didn’t and now it’s too late. I am using this new retinoid product, Sunday Riley “Luna Sleeping Night Oil” that claims to make a big difference in just 4 weeks. I’m 12 days in and already notice some smoothing, glowy effects.

I think oils are good for my mature skin, so I’m also going to douse myself in body oil for the big weekend. I love this Osea Undaria Algae body oil that makes my arms look more nourished and radiant as soon as I apply it. Everyday Oil, originally recommended by our friend Laura Hine, is a good option too.

Other than those treatments (and some meticulous facial hair removal) I’m going to rely on the makeup artist to help me look my best. Here’s a pic from the trial run. Fake lashes make a huge difference! I rarely wear even mascara, so being professionally made up is a real treat.

I confess, I got sucked in by an Instagram ad for some cosmetic tape that tightens up the neck. It sounds so tacky and I can’t really imagine wearing it, but … maybe? I’ll let you know when I get it!

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Finally, I’m trying to keep moving and maintain my weight, so I’m playing lots of tennis and trying to hit the gym twice a week. My trainer, Juliette, put my friend Randee and me on a wedding workout program that emphasizes toned arms and shoulders. Mine need all the help they can get. Randee’s son is getting married in August too, and it’s been so fun and motivating to do this together.

As far as preparing for the wedding events, I am simply trying to stay organized, calm and not take anything personally. My main goal is to make everyone feel as appreciated, welcome and comfortable as possible. It’s easy to get rattled by late breaking requests, but if we can accommodate them, we will. (I’m using this guideline when dealing with the bride and groom as well.) This is a wonderful time celebrating love, new beginnings and commitment and I’m all in!